Rethink launched the first Support Saturdays session this past fall in Toronto. This eight week program is specifically designed for breast cancer patients who have babies or young children.
One of the challenges of trying to fill an important but very niche gap is having enough participants enroll in the program to get it up and running. While the number of women diagnosed during pregnancy or shortly after childbirth is relatively small, these women and their families have very significant needs.
Thank you to the women who expressed interest in the program early on for patiently waiting for it to officially launch. So far, feedback from the women in the program has been very positive.
“As one of the moms who participate in Support Saturdays, I can tell you that right from the outset the group had a strong sense of identity and purpose. Any Cancer diagnosis can be an isolating experience, but add the demands of caring for young ones into the mix and you end up with one hell of a challenging road. Being part of this group has been remarkable and transformative. It's an amazing gift to be with such strong, thoughtful and beautiful woman.
I have finally found an empathetic forum where I can discuss my particular concerns as a new mom with breast cancer. Although sometimes what we end up talking about is extremely painful, it feels like very important work to do. Ultimately I think it will help me heal and accept that painful part of my identity and help me move on to tomorrow.”
- Hayley, Support Saturdays mom
